On Monday, the toys from the drive were dropped off at the Christian Service Center and organized for the eight nonprofits benefiting from it. Joe Arguijo, the center’s operation manager, said he loves giving back to the community.
“Giving back is so doubly beneficial. You know, we know as a community the hardships that folks are experiencing, especially this time of year. So it’s just wonderful to see the enlightenment it brings to families in need this time of year,” Arguijo said.
The drive especially benefits nonprofits like the Noah Project, which sees more clients around the holidays. Executive Director Alana Jeter said having the ability to be a light in a kid’s life makes all the difference.
“We are going to have families come in to shelter for the first time Christmas Eve will most likely have a family come in to shelter and be able to Christmas morning provide Christmas for those kiddos whose whole world has been turned upside down,” Jeter said.
With Communities in Schools, Justin Whiteley said one of the hardest age groups to get donations for is teenagers.
“One of the hardest things I think sometimes to find for is teenagers, um, because a lot of people think about young kids and stuff, but sometimes we don’t think about those older kids,” Whiteley said.
Lacy Brooks, with Ben Richey Boys Ranch, has been shopping for donations for kids for a decade. She said it warms her heart to see how the community gives.
“Just the overflow in there, grateful hearts that just pour onto our organization. All organizations here in Abilene,” Brooks said.
The donations give Santa extra help on his trip around the globe.
The other benefitting nonprofits include New Horizons, BCFS Health and Human Services, Hope Haven, and Mission Abilene.
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